Easy DIY Dog Toys That You Can Actually Make

The Struggle is Real: Why DIY Dog Toys Just Make Sense

Dog parents, you know the drill. You buy a toy that says “indestructible” (lol) and within minutes, it’s confetti on your carpet. Or maybe your pup is giving you those “entertain me or else” eyes while eyeballing your shoes. Been there. And let’s not even talk about how expensive pet toys can get — especially when you’re buying replacements every week.

As a proud Westie mum to Monty (aka Chief Toy Destroyer), I’ve been through the cycle of chew, destroy, repeat. That’s why I turned to DIY—and it’s been a total game-changer. Not only are these toys budget-friendly and easy to make, but they’re also creative ways to recycle old stuff you already have lying around.

More than that, these toys serve a bigger purpose: they provide mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a way to bond with your doggo in the most wholesome, tail-waggy way. And let’s be honest—there’s something seriously satisfying about seeing your pup absolutely obsessed with a toy you made with your own two hands.

Each toy on this list comes with a quick rundown of materials, simple step-by-step instructions, and safety tips to make sure both you and your pup have a tail-wagging good time.

Let’s dig in (pun fully intended)!

1. The Sock ‘n’ Roll (DIY Crinkle Chew Toy)

Best For: Dogs who love crunchy sounds and light chewing
What You’ll Need: Clean sock, empty water bottle (cap & ring removed)
How To: Pop the bottle in the sock, tie a knot at the end, and boom—crunchy fun. You can even double-layer the sock for heavy chewers.
Safety Tip: Always supervise; remove if bottle gets punctured.

2. Frozen Towel Twist

Best For: Teething pups and warm-weather relief
What You’ll Need: Old towel, water, freezer
How To: Soak the towel, twist it, freeze it. Done. These are especially great for summer, and if you want to get fancy, tie it into a knot before freezing.
Bonus Tip: Add bone broth before freezing for extra flavor and hydration.

3. Socktopus the Tug Monster

Best For: Dogs who like to shake, thrash, and tug
What You’ll Need: 4–6 mismatched socks
How To: Bundle socks together, tie a knot in the middle. Instant octopus chaos. Add an old squeaker in the center for more excitement.
Monty’s Tip: He says 10/10 would destroy again and would happily do so every day.

4. T-Shirt Rope Braid

Best For: Tug-of-war champs and heavy chewers
What You’ll Need: Old t-shirts, scissors
How To: Cut into strips, braid tightly, knot both ends. Make multiple braids and braid those together for extra toughness.
Style Bonus: Use bright colors for that perfect dog toy aesthetic and snap a pic for the ‘Gram.
Care Tip: Toss it in the wash every now and then to keep things clean, especially after slobbery play or outdoor adventures.

5. Sweet Potato Chews

Best For: Calm chewers and snack lovers
What You’ll Need: Sweet potatoes, oven
How To: Slice into rounds, bake low and slow till leathery. Cool before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Safety Tip: Supervise; offer as a treat, not a long-term chew. Remove once the dog gets close to the end.

Want even more doggo-approved treat inspo? Check out my roundup of healthy homemade dog treats your pup will drool over.

6. Muffin Tin Brain Game

Best For: Nosey dogs and fast eaters
What You’ll Need: Muffin tin, tennis balls, kibble/treats
How To: Drop treats in cups, cover with balls. Let the snuffling begin! Swap in other objects like crumpled paper for variety.

For more advanced pups, try using balls of different sizes or textures, or layering scents by rubbing the tennis balls with dog-safe herbs or treats.

You can also tape down some balls lightly to add an extra level of difficulty.

7. Snuffle Mat

Best For: Mental stimulation and slow feeding
What You’ll Need: Rubber mat with holes, fleece strips
How To: Thread and knot strips through mat until fluffy. Hide treats inside. The denser the fleece, the harder the challenge.

8. Cardboard Roll Chew Surprise

Best For: Light shredders and curious pups
What You’ll Need: Toilet roll tube, treats
How To: Fold ends to seal in treats. Watch your pup tear in. You can also insert the tube into a small box filled with paper for added challenge.

9. Rope-Wrapped Tennis Ball

Best For: Tug, fetch, and big chewers
What You’ll Need: Rope, tennis ball, knife/scissors
How To: Cut holes in ball, thread rope, knot ends. If you’re feeling extra, wrap the rope around the ball for added texture.

10. The Treat Burrito Towel

Best For: Nose work and boredom busters
What You’ll Need: Dish towel, treats
How To: Scatter treats on towel, roll it up. Let the unrolling chaos commence. Fold it a few times for extra challenge.

11. Egg Carton Crunch Surprise

Best For: Shredders and sniffers
What You’ll Need: Empty egg carton, treats
How To: Hide treats inside, close lid, hand over. You can even tape it loosely shut for dogs who like a bit more resistance.
Safety Tip: Use plain, uncoated cardboard cartons without glossy finishes or printed ink to avoid potential toxins. Always supervise and discard after use.

12. DIY Denim Tug Ring

Best For: Tough chewers and rough play
What You’ll Need: Old jeans, scissors
How To: Cut strips, braid or twist into ring, knot ends. Denim adds durability, and frayed edges can be trimmed for safety.

13. Stuffed Sock Plushie

Best For: Cuddlers and light chewers
What You’ll Need: Sock, fabric scraps or other socks
How To: Stuff, tie off, maybe add a squeaker or crinkle. Great for dogs who carry their toys like prized possessions.

14. Frozen Kong-Style Cup

Best For: Long-lasting enrichment
What You’ll Need: Silicone baking cup or small container, dog-safe filling (peanut butter, yogurt, kibble)
How To: Layer fillings, freeze, serve for a cool challenge. Rotate fillings to keep things interesting.

15. Destruction Box

Best For: Dogs who love to shred
What You’ll Need: Cardboard box, newspaper, toilet rolls, treats
How To: Fill box with paper and treats. Close lid loosely and let your dog go wild. A great indoor rainy-day activity.

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Ready, Set, Fetch Those Scissors!

There you have it—15 ridiculously easy DIY dog toys you can make right now, without leaving your house or spending a dime on pink plush squeakers that Monty would demolish in 30 seconds flat.

Whether you’re looking to create interactive dog toys to beat boredom, chewables for heavy gnawers, or simply want to dabble in handmade dog toys DIY style, there’s something here for every pup personality.

Let’s be real—DIY dog toys aren’t just about saving money (though that’s a nice perk). They’re about getting hands-on with your dog’s enrichment, using your creativity, and knowing that toy was made with love (and possibly chewed with love).

You never know—your toilet paper roll masterpiece might just be the next viral cute dog toy trend.

And if you’re looking for more DIY dog fun, don’t forget to check out my blog or follow along on Pinterest for fresh ideas, seasonal projects, and even more Westie-approved mischief.

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